On December 21, ILLIT attended the ceremony and took home the Best Performance (Female) award. While the win itself quickly became a topic of heated discussion online, attention soon shifted to the group’s acceptance speech—specifically a moment involving HYBE founder Bang Si Hyuk.
During the speech, leader Yunah thanked various members of HYBE’s production and management teams. As part of her remarks, she mentioned Bang Si Hyuk by name, which immediately triggered backlash from some netizens.
In recent months, Bang Si Hyuk has become an increasingly polarizing figure in the K-pop community amid ongoing controversies surrounding HYBE and allegations of financial misconduct currently under investigation. As a result, critics argued that mentioning him publicly during an awards ceremony was inappropriate, with some calling it a “tone-deaf” decision.
Others went further, comparing ILLIT to fellow HYBE labelmates BOYNEXTDOOR, who also won an award that night but did not mention the company founder in their acceptance speech. These comparisons fueled further debate about whether such acknowledgments are necessary—or avoidable—given the current climate.
However, many fans and observers rushed to ILLIT’s defense. Supporters argued that thanking executives and producers during award speeches is standard industry practice and that the group was simply expressing gratitude to those involved in their music and debut process.
Some netizens also pointed out that the backlash may be based on a misunderstanding. According to multiple fans, Yunah did not say “Si Hyuk-nim,” but instead said “Si Young-nim,” suggesting the controversy may be unfounded altogether.
ILLIT is not the first HYBE group to face criticism over mentioning Bang Si Hyuk. Earlier this year, ENHYPEN encountered similar backlash after referencing him in an awards speech, highlighting a growing sensitivity around public acknowledgments involving HYBE leadership.
As opinions remain divided, the situation once again underscores how even brief moments at major award shows can spark intense debate—especially when industry figures at the center of controversy are involved.
Sources: Koreaboo
You must be logged in to post a comment.